Dear Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. (GGHI) Community,

With a blend of gratitude and nostalgia, I am reaching out to share the news of my forthcoming departure from GGHI. The past 3.5 years have been a fulfilling chapter, and it has been my privilege to contribute to the remarkable transformation we’ve collectively brought about in the community.

It has been some of the best work I have ever done and inspired me daily. I want to express my deep appreciation for the opportunities for growth and development that the organization and role has provided me.

Embarking on this journey amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties has been a whirlwind experience. It reshaped GGHI’s mission, expanding our efforts to directly support the business community with resources like capital and training, in addition to the organization’s existing responsibilities.

As we approach the culmination of this calendar year, I would like to reflect on some significant milestones from the past three years—a testament to GGHI’s capabilities and a roadmap for the incoming CEO and our investors.

Key Achievements

  1. Since 2020, GGHI has successfully secured over $1 million in grants and investments. Nearly $800,000 of this amount has been directly allocated to support small businesses and business development programs, with the remaining funds fueling small business training initiatives. Noteworthy among these was the 2023 Small Business Summit as well as the Lunch and Learn programs, offered at no cost to attendees.
  2. In 2023, GGHI collaborated with Clallam and Jefferson EDCs to secure a Small Business Innovation Fund grant. This initiative supported Grays Harbor College students in bookkeeping coursework and provided free marketing, legal, and bookkeeping services to 35 businesses—an impactful contribution totaling over $300,000 in value.
  3. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, GGHI distributed over half a million dollars in direct aid to local businesses. Additionally, crucial technical assistance was provided to facilitate grant applications from various sources.
  4. GGHI played a pivotal role in securing a $200,000 Evergreen Manufacturing Growth grant, supporting the recruitment of a renewable energy pellet plant.
  5. Commencing in 2024, GGHI will benefit from an Economic Recovery Fellow, significantly enhancing the organization’s capacity for entrepreneurial development programs over the next three years.
  6. Throughout the 2021 Washington Legislative Session, GGHI initiated weekly Legislative Affairs Briefings, evolving into a Legislative Priority list, Policy Guide, and the retention of a lobbyist.
  7. GGHI has been a staunch advocate for public funding of major infrastructure projects, childcare facilities, and economic growth. This advocacy has led to record levels of public investment in the region.
  8. Since 2020, GGHI has generously provided non-members in the hospitality industry with free online directory listings, sustained by continued funding from the Grays Harbor County LTAC.

The collective achievements of this team over the past three years fill me with immense pride. The GGHI Board and local government leaders were my first friends upon arrival, offering unwavering support during challenging times. The kindness and encouragement extended to me, especially during personal difficulties such as the passing of my mother in 2021, have been truly remarkable.

My last day at GGHI will be on Friday, January 12th, as I embark on a new role as Chief of Staff at the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce the following week. Before I go, I hope to see you at GGHI Member Business After Hours at Five Star Dealership (December 12th), Summit Pacific Medical Center (January 9th), and Legislative Send-Off on January 5th.

Thank you for being an integral part of this incredible journey. I am confident that GGHI will continue to thrive, and I look forward to staying connected with this remarkable community.